Ground Floor: The Retreats at Park Hotel Kenmare
Location: Kenmare, Ireland
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Sharephotos by: Barry Murphy Photography
August 1, 2008
When hotelier Francis Brennan first saw a derelict 1897 railway hotel in Kenmare, Ireland, nearly 30 years ago, he knew it had potential. It had bay views, impressive Victorian architecture, and a desirable location in a heritage town on the southwestern coast’s scenic Ring of Kerry. With the help of antiques and art dealers to source period furnishings, he transformed the Park Hotel Kenmare into one of the most noted boutique hotels in Europe.But when it came time to add a spa five years ago, Brennan went in a completely different direction. The Samas Spa features a Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired architectural style with clean lines and glass walls offset by stone and wood. "Guests love the contrast of the old and new," says Brennan. Thus, he chose to extend the modern design when creating the resort’s first residential offering, the Retreats at Park Hotel Kenmare, which is adjacent to the spa.
Completed in June, the 18 retreats bring nature inside with glass walls and balcony panels providing unobstructed views of beech trees and rhododendrons. The two-bedroom units are featured within a three-story, modern-yet-organic building of glass, stone, and wood. Prices for the approximately 1,350-square-foot units range from $2.25 million to $2.9 million. Ground-floor units have patios, while top-floor units have 1,300-square-foot rooftop terraces with bay views.
For interiors that combine a modern aesthetic with high-quality workmanship, Brennan selected top British designer David Linley. "The interior has a contemporary loft feel with a London edge," explains Brennan. There is soft suede on the fireplace, textured velvet and leather on the chairs, and intricate marquetry designs in rosewood tables. The optional Linley interior starts at $140,000; buyers can select some of the elements or work with Linley’s team to customize colors and details.
Hotel services, such as in-home dining and housekeeping, are available to owners, who also have access to the Samas Spa and the new stainless steel pool. Restaurants, galleries, and shops are within walking distance to Kenmare, which is often cited as one of the 10 best retirement destinations in the world.
The Retreats at Park Hotel Kenmare, +353.64.41200, www.theretreatskenmare.com
